Ready to mingle singletons are lining up to star in First Dates Ireland

A staggering 4,500 singletons have already applied for the next series of First Dates Ireland.

The first two programmes in the Irish version of the hit Channel 4 show pulled in an impressive 250,000 viewers each.

The series set in the Gibson Hotel near the 3 Arena in Dublin has thrown up a colourful cast of characters looking for love.

In April, landscape gardener Daryl from Carbury broke the heart of smitten student Amy and later told his taxi driver to take him to 'Coppers' nightclub.

Earlier this month, interior designer Ciaran from Maynooth - who readily admitted he was a‘shy guy’ - was set up with Irish dancer Katie from Donaghmede in Dublin.

After a few awkward moments, the pair got on like a house on fire and even agreed to go on a second date on the RTE show - which was recorded a few months ago.

However they revealed today that they only plan to "keep in touch" despite Katie relocating to Toronto.

First Dates Ireland continues on Thursday on RTÉ2 at 9.30pm.